"Yes, this is sad news. I had heard over time that she was trying to get peace and direction in her life. The few times that I had met her and her manager/agent, they were extremely nice," Clemens said.

Billy McKnight, McCready's ex-boyfriend who was charged with attempted murder for allegedly beating her up and choking her back in 2005, told the "Today" show Monday that he was sadly not shocked by her death.

2013 In Memoriam: James Avery

"As sad as it is, it didn't come as a major shock," he said.

Some of Nashville's biggest hitmakers du jour and its chart-toppers of yesteryear alike reacted to McCready's death on Twitter.

Wynonna Judd: "Oh my! Mindy. Dear sweet girl. This is so sad. It just breaks my heart what addiction continues to take from this life. Addiction is a dis EASE & not a character flaw. When the pain becomes too much, it causes people to want that pain to stop. This is just so unbelievable & so sad. God be with the family & those babies. Surround them with your grace & mercy. Sleep in Heavenly peace Mindy."

John Rich: "Very sad to hear about Mindy McCready. When I was in Lonestar she was our label mate and we were friends. A tragic end to a talented life."

Jason Aldean: "Just heard about Mindy McCready. My thoughts and prayers are with her 2 boys and her family."